DC/DC converter, control circuit thereof, power supply, power adapter and electronic apparatus using the same

ABSTRACT

A control circuit of a DC/DC converter having a transformer, a switching transistor, and a detector includes: a feedback terminal receiving a feedback voltage corresponding to an output voltage of the DC/DC converter; a current detection terminal receiving a detection voltage generated in the detection resistor; a conversion circuit configured to amplify, attenuate and/or level-shift at least one of the feedback voltage and the detection voltage, wherein a gain and/or a shift of the conversion circuit are variable; and a gain controller configured to control the gain and/or the shift of the conversion circuit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority fromJapanese Patent Application No. 2012-268925, filed on Dec. 10, 2012, theentire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a DC/DC converter.

BACKGROUND

Electronic appliances including televisions, refrigerators and so on areoperated with external commercial AC (Alternating Current) power.Electronic apparatuses including laptop computers, mobile terminals,PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) and so on are also operated withcommercial AC power and their internal batteries may be charged withcommercial AC power. Such electronic appliances and electronicapparatuses (hereinafter collectively referred to as electronicapparatuses) contain a power supply (inverter or an AC/DC converter) forconverting commercial AC power into DC (Direct Current) power or aninverter is incorporated in an external power adapter (AC adapter) ofthe electronic apparatuses.

FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram showing a basic configuration of an inverter100 r. The inverter 100 r includes, as main parts, a fuse 102, an inputcapacitor Ci, a filter 104, a diode rectifier circuit 106, a smoothingcapacitor Cs and an isolated DC/DC converter 110 r.

A commercial AC voltage V_(AC) is input to the filter 104 via the fuse102 and the input capacitor Ci. The filter 104 removes noise from thecommercial AC voltage V_(AC). The diode rectifier circuit 106 is a diodebridge circuit for full-wave rectification of the commercial AC voltageV_(AC). An output voltage of the diode rectifier circuit 106 is smoothedby the smoothing capacitor Cs and is then converted into a DC voltageV_(IN).

The DC/DC converter (flyback converter) 110 r receives and steps downthe DC voltage V_(IN) at an input terminal P1 and supplies an outputvoltage V_(OUT) stabilized to a target value to a load (not shown)connected to an output terminal P2.

The DC/DC converter 110 r includes a control circuit 2 r, a switchingtransistor M1, an output circuit 200 and a feedback circuit 210. Theoutput circuit 200 includes a transformer T1, a first diode D1, a firstoutput capacitor Co1, a detection resistor R_(S), a second diode D2 anda second output capacitor Co2. The topology of the output circuit 200 istypical and therefore, explanation thereof will be omitted.

By the switching operation of the switching transistor M1, the inputvoltage V_(IN) is dropped and the output voltage V_(OUT) is generated.In addition, by adjusting a duty cycle of the switching operation of theswitching transistor M1, the control circuit 2 r controls a coil currentIp flowing into a primary winding W1 of the transformer T1 whilestabilizing the output voltage V_(OUT) to the target value.

The detection resistor R_(S) is connected in series to the primarywinding W1 of the transformer T1 and the switching transistor M1. Avoltage drop (detection voltage) V_(CS) proportional to the current Ipflowing into the primary winding W1 and the switching transistor M1 isproduced in the detection resistor R_(S). The control circuit 2 rcontrols the current Ip flowing into the primary winding W1 on the basisof the detection voltage V_(CS).

The feedback circuit 210 generates a feedback voltage V_(FB) dependingon the output voltage V_(OUT) and supplies it to a feedback terminal (FBterminal) of the control circuit 2 r. The feedback circuit 210 includesa shunt regulator 212 and a photo coupler 214. The shunt regulator 212generates a feedback signal S11 having a level regulated such that anerror between the output voltage V_(OUT) and a predetermined targetvalue becomes zero, and supplies the generated feedback signal S11 to alight emitting diode of the photo coupler 214. A photo transistor of thephoto coupler 214 converts a light signal S12 emitted from the lightemitting diode into the feedback voltage V_(FB) depending on thefeedback signal S11.

The primary side of the transformer T1 has an auxiliary winding W3 inaddition to the primary winding W1. The auxiliary winding W3, the seconddiode D2 and the second output capacitor Co2 form a second DC/DCconverter. In response to the switching operation of the switchingtransistor M1, a DC voltage V_(CC) is produced in the second outputcapacitor Co2. The DC voltage V_(CC) is supplied to a power terminalV_(CC) (V_(CC) terminal) of the control circuit 2 r.

The control circuit 2 r generates a pulse signal (switching output)S_(OUT) alternating between an ON level corresponding to switch-ON ofthe switching transistor M1 and an OFF level corresponding to switch-OFFof the switching transistor M1. Then, the control circuit 2 r suppliesthe switching output S_(OUT) to a gate of the switching transistor M1.When a duty cycle of the switching output S_(OUT) is adjusted, theoutput voltage V_(OUT) is stabilized to a target value.

FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of the controlcircuit 2 r. The control circuit 2 r includes a pulse modulator 10, adriver 20, a blanking circuit 40, a burst control circuit 50 and avoltage divider 80. The voltage divider 80 divides the feedback voltageV_(FB) with a predetermined division ratio (for example, ¼). Thisdivision ratio is determined to supply sufficient power to a load (notshown) under heavy load conditions.

The blanking circuit 40 is provided to remove noise from the detectionvoltage V_(CS). Specifically, immediately after the switching transistorM1 is switched on, the detection signal V_(CS) is masked during apredetermined blanking interval. The blanking circuit 40 may be omitted.

The pulse modulator 10 generates a pulse signal S_(PWM) based on adetection voltage V_(CS)′ outputted from the blanking circuit 40 and afeedback voltage V_(FB)′ outputted from the voltage divider 80. Thepulse modulator 10 includes an oscillator 12, a comparator 14 and a SRflip-flop 16. The oscillator 12 generates a set signal S_(SET) asserted(having a high level) with a predetermined cycle and inputs the setsignal S_(SET) to a set terminal S of the SR flip-flop 16. When thedetection voltage V_(CS)′ reaches a lower one of the feedback voltageV_(FB)′ and a predetermined upper limit voltage V_(LIM1) in an ON periodof the switching transistor M1, the comparator 14 asserts (having a highlevel) a reset signal S_(RESET) and outputs the asserted reset signalS_(RESET) to a rest terminal R of the flip-flop 16. The pulse signalS_(PWM) outputted from the SR flip-flop 16 transitions to an ON level ofthe switching transistor M1 whenever the set signal S_(SET) is asserted,and transitions to an OFF level whenever the reset signal S_(RESET) isasserted.

The driver 20 switches the switching transistor M1 based on the pulsesignal S_(PWM).

Under light load conditions, the DC/DC converter 110 causes theswitching transistor M1 to perform an intermittent operation (burstoperation) in order to increase efficiency by reducing powerconsumption. Specifically, the DC/DC converter M1 alternates between aswitching period during which the switching transistor M1 is operatedand a stop period during which the switching transistor M1 remains in anOFF condition.

The burst control circuit 50 is provided to detect the light loadconditions of the DC/DC converter 110 and control the burst operation.Under the light load conditions where a load connected to the outputterminal P2 is light, i.e., an output current is small, the outputvoltage V_(OUT) is increased and the feedback voltage V_(FB) isdecreased. The burst control circuit 50 compares the feedback voltageV_(FB) with a predetermined first burst threshold V_(BURST1) and asserts(for example, having a high level) a light load detection signal S_BURSTif the feedback voltage V_(FB) is decreased to the first burst thresholdV_(BURST1). In addition, when the light load detection signal S_BURST isasserted, the burst control circuit 50 negates (for example, having alow level) the light load detection signal S_BURST if the feedbackvoltage V_(FB) reaches a second burst threshold V_(BURST2). While thelight load detection signal S_BURST1 is being asserted, the pulsemodulator 10 fixes the pulse signal S_(PWM) to an OFF level and stopsthe switching operation of the switching transistor M1.

FIG. 3 is a view showing a relationship between the feedback voltageV_(FB) and the peak value V_(CS) _(_) _(PEAK) of the detection voltageV_(CS) in the control circuit 2 r. In the control circuit 2 r of FIG. 2,the feedback voltage V_(FB)′ (corresponding to ¼ of V_(FB)) outputtedfrom the voltage divider 80 is compared with the detection voltageV_(CS). Accordingly, the peak value of the detection voltage V_(CS)becomes equal to ¼ of the feedback voltage V_(FB). Regardless of thelevel of the feedback voltage V_(FB), the peak value V_(CS) _(_) _(PEAK)of the detection voltage V_(CS) is clamped at the upper limit voltageV_(LIM1) and, accordingly, the coil current Ip is limited to an upperlimit current I_(LIM1) depending on the upper limit voltage V_(LIM1).

FIG. 4 is a waveform diagram showing an operation of the DC/DC converter110 r under the light load conditions. A period from time A to time Brepresents a switching period of the switching transistor M1. When theswitching output S_(OUT) has a high level, the switching transistor M1is switched on. When the switching transistor M1 is switched on, thecurrent Ip begins to flow into the switching transistor M1 and theprimary winding W1. The current Ip is increased with a certain slopewith time, and accordingly, the detection voltage V_(CS) is increased.During this period, energy is stored in the transformer T1. Then, whenthe coil current Ip reaches its peak value depending on the feedbackvoltage V_(FB), the switching transistor M1 is switched off.

When the switching transistor M1 is switched off, a charging currentflows through the secondary winding W2 of the transformer T1 and thediode D1, the output capacitor Co1 is charged, and the output voltageV_(OUT) is increased. The energy stored in the transformer T1 isreleased by this charging current. This operation is repeated in theswitching period A-B.

When the output voltage V_(OUT) is increased in the switching periodA-B, the feedback voltage V_(FB) is decreased. Then, when the feedbackvoltage V_(FB) is decreased to the first burst threshold V_(BURST1), astop period arrives. When the feedback voltage V_(FB) reaches the secondburst threshold V_(BURST2) at time C, a switching time arrives and theswitching operation of the switching transistor M1 resumes. FIG. 4 showsa case where V_(BURST1)=V_(BURST2).

The present inventor has reviewed the DC/DC converter 110 r andrecognized the following problems. In the light load mode, the feedbackvoltage V_(FB) and the detection voltage V_(CS) shuttle within a rangeindicated by an arrow in FIG. 3. As described above, the division ratioof the voltage divider 80 is determined under the presumption of heavyload conditions. As a result, the peak value of the detection voltageV_(CS) in the light load conditions, i.e., the peak value of the currentIp flowing into the switching transistor M1, is excessively increased.If the current Ip immediately after the DC/DC converter 110 rtransitions from the stop period to the switching period when the burstoperation is increased, a variation of the magnetic flux density of thetransformer T1 is increased to produce a ringing sound from thetransformer T1.

In addition, if the peak value of the current Ip flowing into theswitching transistor M1 is increased, there rises a problem of increasedenergy stored in the transformer T1 per cycle of the switching operationand an increase in the width of a ripple of the output voltage V_(OUT)during the burst operation.

These problems and mechanisms causing the problems should not beregarded as a general awareness of those skilled in the art but shouldbe considered to be uniquely recognize present inventor.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides some embodiments of a DC/DC converterwhich is capable of suppressing a ringing sound from a transformerand/or a ripple of an output voltage.

According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a control circuitof a DC/DC converter having a transformer having a primary winding and asecondary winding, a switching transistor disposed on a current path ofthe primary winding of the transformer, and a detection resistordisposed on a path of the switching transistor, includes: a feedbackterminal receiving a feedback voltage corresponding to an output voltageof the DC/DC converter; a current detection terminal receiving adetection voltage generated in the detection resistor; a conversioncircuit configured to amplify, attenuate and/or level-shift at least oneof the feedback voltage and the detection voltage, wherein a gain and/ora shift of the conversion circuit are variable; a pulse modulatorconfigured to generate a pulse signal pulse-modulated such that anoutput voltage of the DC/DC converter approaches a target value, basedon the feedback voltage and the detection voltage passed through theconversion circuit; a driver configured to drive the switchingtransistor based on the pulse signal; a burst control circuit configuredto control a switching period during which the switching transistor isswitched and a stop period during which the switching transistor isfixed to switching-OFF; and a gain controller configured to control thegain and/or the shift of the conversion circuit.

With this configuration, by changing the gain and/or the shift of theconversion circuit, the peak value of the detection voltage V_(CS) inthe light load conditions, i.e., the peak value of the current Ipflowing into the switching transistor M1, can be smaller than that inmedium and heavy load conditions. This can, in some embodiments, resultin suppression of a ringing sound from the transformer and/or reductionof a ripple of an output voltage. In the specification, “gain” may notonly be greater than one (amplification) but also less than one(attenuation).

The gain controller may control the conversion circuit based on thefeedback voltage. The light load conditions can be monitored withreference to the feedback voltage.

The gain controller may set the conversion circuit to a first state innormal conditions, set the conversion circuit to a second state when thefeedback voltage is decreased to a predetermined first threshold, andreturn the conversion circuit to the first state when the feedbackvoltage is increased to a second threshold greater than the firstthreshold. In this case, when the load becomes lighter to some extent,by making the transition to the second state, it is possible to suppressthe ringing sound of the transformer and/or educe the output voltageripple. Thereafter, when the feedback voltage is increased to someextent, i.e., the load becomes heavier to some extent, by returning theconversion circuit to the first state, it is possible to supplysufficient energy to the transformer.

The burst control circuit may control the switching period and the stopperiod based on at least the feedback voltage. The burst control circuitmay stop the switching operation of the switching transistor when thefeedback voltage becomes lower than a predetermined third threshold, andresume the switching operation of the switching transistor when thefeedback voltage becomes higher than a predetermined fourth thresholdwhen the switching transistor is stopped.

The gain controller may set the conversion circuit to the first stateunder normal conditions and set the conversion circuit to the secondstate when the feedback voltage is decreased to the predetermined firstthreshold. The burst control circuit may stop the switching operation ofthe switching transistor when the feedback voltage becomes lower thanthe predetermined third threshold. The third threshold may be equal tothe first threshold. In this case, when the light load conditions aremonitored and transition to the burst operation is made, it is possibleto cause transition of the conversion circuit to the second state.

The gain controller may set the conversion circuit to a third stateduring a predetermined period when the feedback voltage is increased tothe second threshold, and, thereafter, return the conversion circuit tothe first state.

The conversion circuit may include an amplifier amplifying the detectionvoltage with a variable gain. The gain controller may control a gain ofthe amplifier.

The conversion circuit may include an attenuation circuit attenuatingthe detection voltage with a variable gain. The gain controller maycontrol a gain of the attenuation circuit.

The pulse modulator may include: a reset signal generator configured togenerate a reset signal asserted when the detection voltage passedthrough the conversion circuit reaches the feedback voltage passedthrough the conversion circuit; a set signal generator configured togenerate a set signal; and a flip-flop configured to generate the pulsesignal which transitions to an ON level corresponding to theswitching-ON of the switching transistor when the set signal is assertedand transitions to an OFF level corresponding to the switching-OFF ofthe switching transistor when the reset signal is asserted.

The set signal generator may assert the set signal with a predeterminedcycle.

The set signal generator may assert the set signal if there is a lapseof a predetermined OFF time after the reset signal is asserted.

The set signal generator may assert the set signal when energy stored inthe transformer is substantially zeroed.

The transformer may further include an auxiliary winding provided at aprimary side of the transformer. The control circuit may further includean auxiliary terminal to which a voltage of one end of the auxiliarywinding is input. The set signal generator may (i) compare the voltageof the auxiliary terminal with a predetermined threshold voltage,generate a bottom detection signal asserted whenever the voltage of theauxiliary terminal crosses the predetermined threshold voltage, and (ii)assert the set signal whenever the number of times of assertion of thebottom detection signal reaches a count set value.

The transformer may further include an auxiliary winding provided at aprimary side of the transformer. The control circuit may further includean auxiliary terminal to which a voltage of one end of the auxiliarywinding is input. The set signal generator may (i) compare the voltageof the auxiliary terminal with a predetermined threshold voltage,generates a bottom detection signal asserted whenever the voltage of theauxiliary terminal crosses the predetermined threshold voltage, and (ii)assert the set signal if there is a lapse of a predetermined time afterthe bottom detection signal is asserted.

The control circuit may be integrated on a single semiconductorsubstrate. “Integration” may include a case where all circuit elementsare formed on a single semiconductor substrate, a case where some maincircuit elements are integrated on a single semiconductor, and a casewhere some resistors, capacitors and so on are formed out of asemiconductor substrate. When the control circuit is integrated into asingle IC (Integrated Circuit), a circuit area can be reduced andcharacteristics of circuit elements can be uniformly maintained.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, there isprovided a DC/DC converter including: a transformer having a primarywinding, a secondary winding and an auxiliary winding; a switchingtransistor connected to the primary winding of the transformer; a firstdiode having an anode connected to the secondary winding; a first outputcapacitor having one grounded end and the other end connected to acathode of the first diode; a second diode having an anode connected tothe auxiliary winding; a second output capacitor having one grounded endand the other end connected to a cathode of the second diode; a feedbackcircuit configured to generate a feedback voltage corresponding to anoutput voltage produced in the first output capacitor; and theabove-described control circuit configured to receive the feedbackvoltage and switch the switching transistor.

The feedback circuit may include: a shunt regulator configured togenerate a feedback signal having a level regulated such that adifference between a voltage obtained by division of the output voltageand a predetermined target value is zeroed; and a photo coupler having aprimary side light emitting device controlled by the feedback signal,wherein a signal produced by a secondary side light receiving device ofthe photo coupler is supplied, as the feedback signal, to the controlcircuit.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a powersupply includes: a filter configured to filter a commercial AC voltage;a diode rectifier circuit configured to full wave-rectify an outputvoltage of the filter; a smoothing capacitor configured to generate a DCinput voltage by smoothing an output voltage of the diode rectifiercircuit; and the above-described DC/DC converter configured to drop theDC input voltage and supply the dropped voltage to a load.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronicapparatus includes: a load; a filter configured to filter a commercialAC voltage; a diode rectifier circuit configured to full wave-rectify anoutput voltage of the filter; a smoothing capacitor configured togenerate a DC input voltage by smoothing an output voltage of the dioderectifier circuit; and the above-described DC/DC converter configured todrop the DC input voltage and supply the dropped voltage to the load.

According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a poweradapter includes: a filter configured to filter a commercial AC voltage;a diode rectifier circuit configured to full wave-rectify an outputvoltage of the filter; a smoothing capacitor configured to generate a DCinput voltage by smoothing an output voltage of the diode rectifiercircuit; and the above-described DC/DC converter configured to drop theDC input voltage and generate a DC output voltage.

Other aspects of the present disclosures may include any combinations ofthe above-described elements or conversion of expression of the presentdisclosure between methods, apparatuses and systems and so on.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram showing a basic configuration of aninverter.

FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of a controlcircuit.

FIG. 3 is a view showing a relationship between a feedback voltageV_(FB) and a peak value V_(CS) _(_) _(PEAK) of a detection voltageV_(CS) in the control circuit.

FIG. 4 is a waveform diagram showing an operation of a DC/DC converterunder light load conditions.

FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of a control circuitaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of a DC/DC converterincluding the control circuit according to the embodiment of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a view showing a relationship between a feedback voltageV_(FB) and a peak value V_(CS) _(_) _(PEAK) of a detection voltageV_(CS) in the control circuit of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a waveform diagram showing an operation of the DC/DC converterof FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a waveform diagram showing an operation of the DC/DC converterof FIG. 6 under light load conditions.

FIG. 10 is a view showing an AC adapter including an inverter.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are views showing an electronic apparatus including aninverter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detailwith reference to the drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same orsimilar elements, members and processes are denoted by the samereference numerals and explanation of which will not be repeated. Thedisclosed embodiments are provided for the purpose of illustration, notlimitation, of the present disclosure and all features and combinationsthereof described in the embodiments cannot be necessarily construed todescribe the spirit of the present disclosure.

In the specification, the phrase “connection of a member A and a memberB” is intended to include direct physical connection of the member A andthe member B as well as indirect connection thereof via other member aslong as the other member has no substantial effect on the electricalconnection of the member A and the member B or has no damage tofunctions and effects shown by a combination of the member A and themember B. Similarly, the phrase “interposition of a member C between amember A and a member B” is intended to include direct connection of themember A and the member C or direct connection of the member B and themember C as well as indirect connection thereof via other member as longas the other member has no substantial effect on the electricalconnection of the member A, the member B and the member C or has nodamage to functions and effects shown by a combination of the member A,the member B and the member C.

FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of a control circuit2 according to an embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing aconfiguration of a DC/DC converter 110 including the control circuit 2according to the embodiment. The control circuit 2 shown in FIG. 5 maybe used for the DC/DC converter 110 as shown in FIG. 6.

The DC/DC converter 110 includes the control circuit 2, a switchingtransistor M1, a detection resistor R_(S), an output circuit 200 and afeedback circuit 210 as shown in FIG. 6. Except the configuration of thecontrol circuit 2, the DC/DC converter 110 in FIG. 6 has the sameconfigurations of the DC/DC converter 110 r as shown in FIG. 1 and,therefore, explanation of which is not repeated.

The configuration of the control circuit 2 will now be described. Thecontrol circuit 2 may be a functional IC integrated on a singlesemiconductor substrate and has an auxiliary terminal (ZT terminal), aFB terminal, a CS terminal, a GND terminal, an OUT terminal, a VCCterminal and a VH terminal, as shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 5 shows only the FBterminal, the OUT terminal and the CS terminal, with the remainingterminals not shown.

The control circuit 2 stabilizes a DC output voltage V_(OUT) to a targetlevel by adjusting a duty cycle of a switching operation of theswitching transistor M1 of the DC/DC converter 110 based on a detectionvoltage V_(CS) of the CS terminal and a feedback voltage V_(FB) of theFB terminal. The switching transistor M1 may be integrated into thecontrol circuit 2.

The control circuit 2 includes a pulse modulator 10, a driver 20, aconversion circuit 30, a blanking circuit 40, a burst control circuit 50and a gain controller 60.

The blanking circuit 40 is provided to remove noise from the detectionvoltage V_(CS). Specifically, immediately after the switching transistorM1 is switched on, the detection signal V_(CS) is masked during apredetermined blanking interval. The blanking circuit 40 may be omitted.

The conversion circuit 30 amplifies, attenuates and/or level-shifts atleast one of the feedback voltage V_(FB) and the detection voltageV_(CS). The conversion circuit 30 is configured to switch betweenmultiple conditions and is set with different gains and/or shifts fordifferent conditions. That is, the gain and/or shifts of the conversioncircuit 30 are variable. In this embodiment, amplification/attenuationof at least one of the feedback voltage V_(FB) and the detection voltageV_(CS) will be described. Shift of at least one of the feedback voltageV_(FB) and the detection voltage V_(CS) will be described later inmodifications.

For example, the conversion circuit 30 includes a voltage divider 32 andan amplifier 34. The voltage divider 32 divides the feedback voltageV_(FB) with a predetermined division ratio of R12/(R11+R12). That is, again α_(FB) for the feedback voltage V_(FB) is R12/(R11+R12). In thisembodiment, the gain α_(FB) is ¼.

The amplifier 34 amplifies the detection voltage V_(CS) with a variablegain α_(CS). The gain α_(CS) of the amplifier 34 is configured to switchbetween at least two values. In this embodiment, the gain α_(CS) mayswitch between three values, i.e., a first value α_(CS1)(=1), a secondvalue α_(CS2)(=4) and a third value α_(CS3)(=2).

It is here assumed that a state where the gain α_(CS) of the amplifier34 is the first value α_(CS1) is a first state φ1, a state where thegain α_(CS) is the second value α_(CS2) is a second state φ2, and astate where the gain α_(CS) is the third value α_(CS3) is a third stateφ3. It is also assumed that a ratio of the gain α_(FB) for the feedbackvoltage V_(FB) to the gain α_(CS) for the detection voltage V_(CS) is aconversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS).

In this case, the conversion circuit 30 may allow the conversion ratioα_(FB)/α_(CS) to switch between multiple values. Specifically,α_(FB)/α_(CS1)=¼ for the first state φ1, α_(FB)/α_(CS2)= 1/16 for thesecond state α2, and α_(FB)/α_(CS3)=⅛ for the third state φ3.

The conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS1) of the first state φ1 is determinedto supply sufficient power to a load (not shown) under heavy loadconditions. On the other hand, the conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS2) ofthe second state φ2 is determined to suppress a ringing sound from thetransformer T1 and/or lessen a ripple of the output voltage V_(OUT)under light load conditions.

The pulse modulator 10 generates a pulse signal S_(PWM) pulse-modulatedto allow the output voltage V_(OUT) of the DC/DC converter 110 toapproach a target value, based on a feedback voltage V_(FB)′ and adetection voltage V_(CS)′ output from the conversion circuit 30. Thepulse modulator 10 may be a so-called peak current mode modulator.

The configuration of the pulse modulator 10 is not particularly limitedbut may use any known techniques. For example, the pulse modulator 10includes a set signal generator 12, a reset signal generator 14 and a SRflip-flop 16.

The reset signal generator 14 generates a reset signal S_(RESET)asserted when the detection voltage V_(CS)′ output from the conversioncircuit 30 reaches the feedback voltage V_(FB)′ output from theconversion circuit 30. For example, the reset signal generator 14asserts (having a high level) the reset signal S_(RESET) if thedetection voltage V_(CS)′ is higher than a lower one of the feedbackvoltage V_(FB)′ and the upper limit voltage V_(LIM1).

The set signal generator 12 generates a set signal S_(SET). For example,the set signal generator 12 may include an oscillator which asserts(having a high level) the set signal S_(SET) every predetermined cycle.

As an alternative, the set signal generator 12 may assert the set signalS_(SET) if there is a lapse of a predetermined OFF time T_(OFF) afterthe reset signal S_(RESET) is asserted.

As another alternative, the set signal generator 12 may asserts the setsignal S_(SET) when energy stored in the transformer T1 is substantiallyzeroed (being referred to as quasi-resonance control).

For the quasi-resonance control, in some embodiments, the set signalgenerator 12 may be composed of a comparator and a counter (not shown).A voltage of one end of the auxiliary winding W3 is divided and input tothe ZT terminal. The comparator compares the voltage of the one end ofthe auxiliary winding W3, which is input to the ZT terminal, with apredetermined threshold voltage and asserts a bottom detection signalwhenever the voltage of the ZT terminal crosses the threshold voltage.The counter may assert the set signal S_(SET) when the number of timesby which the bottom detection signal is asserted reaches a set value.

For the quasi-resonance control, in other embodiments, the set signalgenerator 12 may be composed of a comparator and a timer (not shown).The comparator compares the voltage of the ZT terminal with apredetermined threshold voltage and generates a bottom detection signalasserted whenever the voltage of the ZT terminal crosses the thresholdvoltage. The timer asserts the set signal S_(SET) if there is a lapse ofa predetermined time after the bottom detection signal is asserted.

The set signal S_(SET) generated by the set signal generator 12 is inputto the set terminal S of the SR flip-flop 16. The pulse signal S_(PWM)as an output of the SR flip-flop 16 transitions to an ON level (highlevel) corresponding to the switching-ON of the switching transistor M1when the set signal S_(SET) is asserted, and transitions to an OFF level(low level) corresponding to the switching-OFF of the switchingtransistor M1 when the reset signal S_(RESET) is asserted.

The driver 20 drives the switching transistor M1 connected to the OUTterminal based on the pulse signal S_(PWM).

The burst control circuit 50 detects light load conditions. For example,the burst control signal 50 includes a comparator (not shown) to comparethe feedback voltage V_(FB) with a predetermined first burst threshold(also referred to as a third threshold) V_(BURST1). When the feedbackvoltage V_(FB) becomes lower than the third threshold V_(BURST1), theburst control circuit 50 asserts (having a high level) a light loaddetection signal S_BURST. When the light load detection signal S_BURSTis asserted, the pulse modulator 10 fixes the pulse signal S_(PWM) to anOFF level (low level) and stops the switching operation of the switchingtransistor M1.

In addition, the burst control circuit 50 compares the feedback voltageV_(FB) with a predetermined second burst threshold (also referred to asa fourth threshold) V_(BURST2). When the feedback voltage V_(FB) becomeslower than the fourth threshold V_(BURST2), the burst control circuit 50negates (having a low level) the light load detection signal S_BURST. Inthis embodiment, the fourth threshold V_(BURST2) is set to be higherthan the third threshold V_(BURST1). In this case, the burst controlcircuit 50 may be configured using a hysteresis comparator.

The gain controller 60 changes the gain and/or shift of theabove-described conversion circuit 30. That is, the gain controller 60controls a state of the conversion circuit 30.

In more detail, the gain controller 6 controls the conversion circuit 30based on the feedback voltage V_(FB). For example, the gain controller60 includes a comparator (not shown) to compare the feedback voltageV_(FB) with at least one predetermined threshold. The gain controller 60sets the conversion circuit 30 to the first state φ1 in a normal state(medium load to heavy load) under which some degree of load currentflows. When the feedback voltage V_(FB) is decreased to a predeterminedfirst threshold V_(TH1), the gain controller 60 sets the conversioncircuit 30 to the second state φ2. Thereafter, when the feedback voltageV_(FB) is increased to a second threshold V_(TH2), which is greater thanthe first threshold V_(TH1), the gain controller 60 returns theconversion circuit 30 to the first state φ1.

In this embodiment, the first threshold V_(TH1) is equal to the thirdthreshold V_(BURST1). That is, while the light load conditions aredetected and the control circuit 2 transitions to the burst operation,the gain controller 60 sets the conversion circuit 30 to the secondstate φ2.

The gain controller 60 generates a control signal S_GAIN based on aresult of the comparison between the feedback voltage V_(FB) and thethresholds V_(TH1) and V_(TH2). The state of the conversion circuit 30is switched according to the control signal S_GAIN. The gain controller60 may be configured with a hysteresis comparator having two thresholdsV_(TH1) and V_(TH2).

In some embodiments, when the feedback voltage V_(FB) is increased tothe second threshold V_(TH2), the gain controller 60 sets the conversioncircuit 30 to the third state φ3 during a certain period, particularly aperiod of several hundred μs to several ms (for example, 500 μs), and,thereafter, sets the conversion circuit 30 to the second state φ2.

Subsequently, an operation of the control circuit 2 will be described.FIG. 7 is a view showing a relationship between the feedback voltageV_(FB) and the peak value V_(CS) _(_) _(PEAK) of the detection voltageV_(CS) in the control circuit 2 of FIG. 5. In the first state φ1, therelationship of V_(CS) _(_) _(PEAK)=V_(FB)×α_(FB)/α_(CS1)=V_(FB)×¼ isestablished.

When the feedback voltage V_(FB) is decreased to the third thresholdV_(BURST1), the light load conditions are detected and the controlcircuit 2 transitions to the burst operation. At the same time, theconversion circuit 30 is switched to the second state φ2. In the secondstate φ2, the relationship of V_(CS) _(_)_(PEAK)=V_(FB)×α_(FB)/α_(CS2)=V_(FB)× 1/16 is established. In the secondstate φ2, when the feedback voltage V_(FB) is decreased to the secondthreshold V_(TH2), the conversion circuit 30 returns to the first stateφ1.

FIG. 8 is a waveform diagram showing an operation of the DC/DC converter110 of FIG. 6. Prior to time A, the DC/DC converter 110 is operated inthe normal state, the conversion circuit 30 has the first state φ1 andthe conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS) is ¼.

At time A, a load (not shown) lightens and the feedback voltage V_(FB)begins to be decreased. At time B, when the feedback voltage V_(FB) isdecreased to the third threshold V_(BURST1), the switching operationstops. At the same time, the conversion circuit 30 has the second stateφ2 and the conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS) becomes 1/16.

The output voltage V_(OUT) (not shown) is increased by switchingoperation of the switching transistor M1 in the period from time A totime B, and, accordingly, the feedback voltage V_(FB) is decreased.After time B, when the switching operation of the switching transistorM1 is stopped, the output voltage V_(OUT) is decreased and the feedbackvoltage V_(FB) is increased. At time D, when the feedback voltage V_(FB)is increased to the fourth threshold V_(BURST2), a switching periodarrives. Thereafter, the burst operation lasts during a period from timeD to time L. Meanwhile, the conversion circuit 30 also remains in thesecond state φ2.

At time M, the load gets heavy. When the load gets heavy, the outputvoltage V_(OUT) is decreased and the feedback voltage V_(FB) begins tobe increased. At time N, the feedback voltage V_(FB) exceeds the fourththreshold V_(BURST2). At time O, when the feedback voltage V_(FB)reaches the second threshold V_(TH2), the conversion circuit 30 has thethird state φ3 and the conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS) becomes ⅛ during aperiod (500 μs) from time O to time P. At time P, the conversion circuit30 has the first state φ1 and the conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS) becomes¼.

FIG. 9 is a waveform diagram showing an operation of the DC/DC converter110 of FIG. 6 under the light load conditions. In the control circuit 2of FIG. 5, since the conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS) becomes small, thepeak value of the detection voltage V_(CS), i.e., the peak value of thecurrent Ip, can be further reduced as compared to that in FIG. 4 showinga fixed conversion ratio

As a result, variation of the magnetic flux density of the transformerT1 can be suppressed and a ringing sound can be suppressed. In addition,as shown in FIG. 9, since the amplitude of the detection voltage V_(CS)(or the coil current Ip) becomes small, a current supplied to the outputcapacitor Co1 during one switching period in the burst operation becomessmall. As a result, a ripple of the output voltage V_(OUT) can bereduced.

In addition, when the conversion circuit 30 returns from the secondstate φ2 to the first state φ1, if the variation of the conversion ratioα_(FB)/α_(CS) is too large, the conversion circuit 30 may shuttlebetween the first state φ1 and the second state φ2, which may result ininstability of the DC/DC converter 100. In this case, the DC/DCconverter 100 can be stabilized by inserting the third state φ3.

Subsequently, usage of the DC/DC converter 110 will be described.

The DC/DC converter 110 is suitable to be used for the inverter (powersupply) 100 as shown in FIG. 1. The inverter 100 is suitable to be usedfor power blocks of an AC adapter and an electronic apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a view showing an AC adapter 800 including the inverter 100.The AC adapter 800 includes a plug 802, a housing 804 and a connector806. The plug 802 receives a commercial AC voltage V_(AC) from anelectrical socket (not shown). The inverter 100 is mounted within thehousing 804. A DC output voltage V_(OUT) generated by the inverter 100is supplied from the connector 806 into an electronic apparatus 810.Examples of the electronic apparatus 810 may include a notebook PC, adigital camera, a digital video camera, a mobile phone, a portable audioplayer and the like.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are views showing an electronic apparatus 900including the inverter 100. Although it is illustrated that theelectronic apparatus 900 is a display apparatus in FIGS. 11A and 11B,the electronic apparatus 900 is not particularly limited but may be anyapparatus incorporating a power supply, such as an audio apparatus, arefrigerator, a washing machine, a vacuum cleaner and the like. A plug902 receives a commercial AC voltage V_(AC) from an electrical socket(not shown). The inverter 100 is mounted within a housing 904. A DCoutput voltage V_(OUT) generated by the inverter 100 is supplied to aload (not shown) mounted within the same housing 904, such as amicrocomputer, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a power supply circuit,an illumination apparatus, an analog circuit, a digital circuit or thelike.

Heretofore, the present disclosure has been described by way of specificembodiments. The disclosed embodiments are merely examples and it is tobe understood by those skilled in the art that combinations of elementsand processes of the embodiments can be modified in various ways andsuch modification falls within the scope of the present disclosure. Thefollowing description is given to such modification.

(First Modification)

Although it has been illustrated in the above embodiment that the gainof the amplifier 34 is changed, the present disclosure is not limitedthereto. For example, instead of or in addition to the gain of theamplifier 34, the conversion ratio α_(FB)/α_(CS) may be controlled bymaking the division ratio (i.e., the gain α_(FB)) of the voltage divider32 variable and changing this division ratio. For example, with the gainof the amplifier 34 fixed to one (the amplifier may be omitted), thedivision ratio α_(m) is set to a first value (¼) in the first state φ1and a second value ( 1/16) in the second state φ2.

(Second Modification)

The conversion circuit 30 may include a level shift circuit (not shown)to shift at least one of the feedback voltage V_(FB) and the detectionvoltage V_(CS). For example, the level shift circuit may be disposed ona path of the detection voltage V_(CS) and may shift the detectionvoltage V_(CS) to a higher potential in the second state φ2 than in thefirst state φ1. This can also reduce the peak current of the coilcurrent Ip during the burst operation. In this case, the amplifier 34may be omitted.

As an alternative, the level shift circuit may be disposed on a path ofthe feedback voltage V_(FB) and may shift the feedback voltage V_(FB) toa lower potential in the second state φ2 than in the first state φ1.This can also reduce the peak current of the coil current Ip during theburst operation.

As another alternative, the feedback voltage V_(FB) and the detectionvoltage V_(CS) may be relatively shifted by changing an input offsetvoltage of the comparator (reset signal generator) 14 intentionally.

The shift and the gain may be controlled in combination.

(Third Modification)

Although it has been illustrated in the above embodiment that the shuntregulator (error amplifier) 212 is disposed at the secondary side of thetransformer T1, an error amplifier (not shown) may be disposed at theprimary side thereof or may be incorporated into the control circuit 2.

(Fourth Modification)

The configuration of the burst control circuit 50 is not limited to thatdescribed above but may use other known techniques capable ofcontrolling the burst operation.

(Fifth Modification)

Although the switching between the first state φ1 and the second stateφ2 has been illustrated in the above embodiment, the present disclosureis not limited thereto but may provide more switchable states. In thiscase, a current peak value may be changed step by step depending on themagnitude of load current.

(Sixth Modification)

Although it has been illustrated in the above embodiment that thecircuits described are constructed by a positive logic (high-active)system in which assertion of each signal is assigned with a high leveland negation thereof is assigned with a low level, the circuits may beconstructed by a negative logic system or a combination of a positivelogic system and a negative logic system.

According to the present disclosure in some embodiments, the DC/DCconverter can be used in a variety of environments.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments havebeen presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit thescope of the disclosures. Indeed, the novel methods and apparatusesdescribed herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms;furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form ofthe embodiments described herein may be made without departing from thespirit of the disclosures. The accompanying claims and their equivalentsare intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall withinthe scope and spirit of the disclosures.

What is claimed is:
 1. A control circuit of a DC/DC converter includinga transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding, aswitching transistor disposed on a current path of the primary windingof the transformer, and a detection resistor connected to the switchingtransistor, the control circuit comprising: a feedback terminalreceiving a feedback voltage corresponding to an output voltage of theDC/DC converter; a current detection terminal receiving a detectionvoltage generated in the detection resistor; a conversion circuitconfigured to amplify, attenuate and/or level-shift at least one of thefeedback voltage and the detection voltage, wherein a gain and/or ashift of the conversion circuit are variable; a pulse modulatorconfigured to generate a pulse signal pulse-modulated such that theoutput voltage of the DC/DC converter approaches a target value, basedon the feedback voltage and the detection voltage passed through theconversion circuit; a driver configured to drive the switchingtransistor based on the pulse signal; a burst control circuit configuredto control a switching period during which the switching transistor isswitched and a stop period during which the switching transistor isfixed to switching-OFF; and a gain controller configured to control thegain and/or the shift of the conversion circuit, wherein the gaincontroller sets the conversion circuit to a first state in which a gainof the conversion circuit is a first gain under normal conditions, setthe conversion circuit to a second state in which the gain of theconversion circuit is a second gain greater than the first gain when thefeedback voltage is decreased to a predetermined first threshold, setthe conversion circuit to a third state in which the gain of theconversion circuit is a third gain greater than the first gain andsmaller than the second gain during a predetermined period when thefeedback voltage is increased to a second threshold greater than thefirst threshold, and, thereafter, returns the conversion circuit to thefirst state.
 2. The control circuit of claim 1, wherein the gaincontroller controls the conversion circuit based on the feedbackvoltage.
 3. The control circuit of claim 1, wherein the burst controlcircuit controls the switching period and the stop period based on atleast the feedback voltage.
 4. The control circuit of claim 3, whereinthe burst control circuit stops the switching operation of the switchingtransistor when the feedback voltage becomes lower than a predeterminedthird threshold, and resumes the switching operation of the switchingtransistor when the feedback voltage becomes higher than a predeterminedfourth threshold under conditions where the switching transistor isstopped.
 5. The control circuit of claim 1, wherein the gain controllersets the conversion circuit to the first state under normal conditionsand sets the conversion circuit to the second state when the feedbackvoltage is decreased to the predetermined first threshold, and whereinthe burst control circuit stops the switching operation of the switchingtransistor when the feedback voltage becomes lower than thepredetermined third threshold equal to the first threshold.
 6. Thecontrol circuit of claim 1, wherein the conversion circuit includes anamplifier amplifying the detection voltage with a variable gain, andwherein the gain controller controls a gain of the amplifier.
 7. Thecontrol circuit of claim 1, wherein the conversion circuit includes anattenuation circuit attenuating the detection voltage with a variablegain, and wherein the gain controller controls a gain of the attenuationcircuit.
 8. The control circuit of claim 1, wherein the pulse modulatorincludes: a reset signal generator configured to generate a reset signalasserted when the detection voltage passed through the conversioncircuit reaches the feedback voltage passed through the conversioncircuit; a set signal generator configured to generate a set signal; anda flip-flop configured to generate the pulse signal which transitions toan ON level corresponding to the switching-ON of the switchingtransistor when the set signal is asserted and transitions to an OFFlevel corresponding to the switching-OFF of the switching transistorwhen the reset signal is asserted.
 9. The control circuit of claim 8,wherein the set signal generator asserts the set signal with apredetermined cycle.
 10. The control circuit of claim 8, wherein the setsignal generator asserts the set signal if there is a lapse of apredetermined OFF time after the reset signal is asserted.
 11. Thecontrol circuit of claim 8, wherein the set signal generator asserts theset signal when energy stored in the transformer is substantiallyzeroed.
 12. The control circuit of claim 8, wherein the transformerfurther includes an auxiliary winding provided at a primary side of thetransformer, wherein the control circuit further includes an auxiliaryterminal to which a voltage of one end of the auxiliary winding isinput, and wherein the set signal generator compares the voltage of theauxiliary terminal with a predetermined threshold voltage, generates abottom detection signal asserted whenever the voltage of the auxiliaryterminal crosses the predetermined threshold voltage, and asserts theset signal whenever the number of times of assertion of the bottomdetection signal reaches a count set value.
 13. The control circuit ofclaim 8, wherein the transformer further includes an auxiliary windingprovided at a primary side of the transformer, wherein the controlcircuit further includes an auxiliary terminal to which a voltage of oneend of the auxiliary winding is input, and wherein the set signalgenerator compares the voltage of the auxiliary terminal with apredetermined threshold voltage, generates a bottom detection signalasserted whenever the voltage of the auxiliary terminal crosses thepredetermined threshold voltage, and asserts the set signal if there isa lapse of a predetermined time after the bottom detection signal isasserted.
 14. The control circuit of claim 1, wherein the controlcircuit is integrated on a single semiconductor substrate.
 15. Thecontrol circuit of claim 1, wherein the gain controller includes ahysteresis comparator configured to compare the feedback voltagereceived from the feedback terminal with the first threshold and thesecond threshold to change the gain and/or the shift of the conversioncircuit.
 16. A DC/DC converter comprising: a transformer having aprimary winding, a secondary winding and an auxiliary winding; aswitching transistor connected to the primary winding of thetransformer; a first diode having an anode connected to the secondarywinding; a first output capacitor having one grounded end and the otherend connected to a cathode of the first diode; a detection resistorconnected to the switching transistor; a second diode having an anodeconnected to the auxiliary winding; a second output capacitor having onegrounded end and the other end connected to a cathode of the seconddiode; a feedback circuit configured to generate a feedback voltagecorresponding to an output voltage of the DC/DC converter, the outputvoltage being produced in the first output capacitor; and a controlcircuit configured to receive the feedback voltage and switch theswitching transistor, wherein the control circuit comprises: a feedbackterminal receiving the feedback voltage corresponding to the outputvoltage of the DC/DC converter; a current detection terminal receiving adetection voltage generated in the detection resistor; a conversioncircuit configured to amplify, attenuate and/or level-shift at least oneof the feedback voltage and the detection voltage, wherein a gain and/ora shift of the conversion circuit are variable; a pulse modulatorconfigured to generate a pulse signal pulse-modulated such that theoutput voltage of the DC/DC converter approaches a target value, basedon the feedback voltage and the detection voltage passed through theconversion circuit; a driver configured to drive the switchingtransistor based on the pulse signal; a burst control circuit configuredto control a switching period during which the switching transistor isswitched and a stop period during which the switching transistor isfixed to switching-OFF; and a gain controller configured to control thegain and/or the shift of the conversion circuit, wherein the gaincontroller sets the conversion circuit to a first state in which a gainof the conversion circuit is a first gain under normal conditions, setthe conversion circuit to a second state in which the gain of theconversion circuit is a second gain greater than the first gain when thefeedback voltage is decreased to a predetermined first threshold, setthe conversion circuit to a third state in which the gain of theconversion circuit is a third gain greater than the first gain andsmaller than the second gain during a predetermined period when thefeedback voltage is increased to a second threshold greater than thefirst threshold, and, thereafter, returns the conversion circuit to thefirst state.
 17. The DC/DC converter of claim 16, wherein the feedbackcircuit includes: a shunt regulator configured to generate a feedbacksignal having a level regulated such that a difference between a voltageobtained by division of the output voltage and a predetermined targetvalue is zeroed; and a photo coupler having a primary side lightemitting device controlled by the feedback signal, wherein a signalproduced by a secondary side light receiving device of the photo coupleris supplied, as the feedback signal, to the control circuit.
 18. A powersupply comprising: a filter configured to filter a commercial ACvoltage; a diode rectifier circuit configured to full wave-rectify anoutput voltage of the filter; a smoothing capacitor configured togenerate a DC input voltage by smoothing an output voltage of the dioderectifier circuit; and the DC/DC converter of claim 16, which isconfigured to drop the DC input voltage by switching the switchingtransistor and supply the dropped voltage to a load.
 19. An electronicapparatus comprising: a load; a filter configured to filter a commercialAC voltage; a diode rectifier circuit configured to full wave-rectify anoutput voltage of the filter; a smoothing capacitor configured togenerate a DC input voltage by smoothing an output voltage of the dioderectifier circuit; and the DC/DC converter of claim 16, which isconfigured to drop the DC input voltage by switching the switchingtransistor and supply the dropped voltage to the load.
 20. A poweradapter comprising: a filter configured to filter a commercial ACvoltage; a diode rectifier circuit configured to full wave-rectify anoutput voltage of the filter; a smoothing capacitor configured togenerate a DC input voltage by smoothing an output voltage of the dioderectifier circuit; and the DC/DC converter of claim 16, which isconfigured to drop the DC input voltage by switching the switchingtransistor and generate a DC output voltage.